Becoming a Certified Management Accountant opens more doors to career growth and higher earning potential. If you'd like to better understand how to become a CMA, we're breaking down the steps you need to take. We're also answering questions about how long it takes and how much it costs to earn your certification, so you have a clear picture of what to expect. 

If you're exploring the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) credential, you've come across the certification’s governing body, the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). Learn what, exactly the IMA does, the details of membership, and how it applies to your CMA journey. 

You've passed the CPA Exam, completed your education and experience requirements, and earned the most prestigious three letters in the industry after your name. But the work doesn't end after you're officially a Certified Public Accountant. You'll need to complete a specific amount of continuing professional education (CPE) hours to maintain your license or other accounting designation. So, what is CPE? And how much will you need?

Accounting is a world of numbers. And many believe that technical expertise overshadows the essential accounting soft skills needed to excel in the profession. However, just as important as completing your tasks well is how you complete them. As the accounting profession becomes less about knowing how to book a journal entry, prepare a tax return, or audit numbers on a trial balance, skills like navigating interpersonal relationships and managing work effectively have become essential for your career growth. 

CMA Exam preparation isn’t all created equal. With a vast amount of material to understand across financial planning, performance management, analytics, and strategic financial management, knowing where to focus your time can make all the difference. 

Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) have a well-earned reputation for being experts in accounting, compliance, and finance management. But they’re not the only ones who can help clients make sense of tax issues and compliance. If you’re considering a career focused on assisting clients with tax-related issues, it's worth weighing your credentialing options between Enrolled Agent vs CPA. 

Whether you're working in audit, tax, corporate accounting, or financial reporting, continuing professional education (CPE) is necessary to stay compliant and strengthen your expertise. Learn some of the best CPE topics for accountants in India, as accounting standards, regulations, technology, and client expectations have turned CPE into a career advantage rather than just a professional requirement. 

There is nothing more discouraging than spending weeks or even months studying for a section of the CPA Exam, only to find out you didn’t pass. Although a small percentage of candidates receive a CPA Exam passing score, the vast majority of candidates have to retake at least one exam. In fact, some of Becker’s best instructors failed the CPA Exam multiple times before finally passing. 

The CPA Exam is composed of 3 Core Exam sections and 1 Discipline Exam (of 3 options). The Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR) is one of these three Discipline sections. To help you prepare and pass, we’re examining the structure and content of this section, as well as tips to get Exam Day ReadySM. Read on to remove the mystery surrounding the exam’s content and structure, unlock tips on how to prepare and determine if this Discipline is right for you. Your career is waiting; it’s time to raise the BAR!

If you're taking the CPA Exam, the most important question you'll likely ask yourself is: will I pass?  To cut through the confusion, we’re sharing what you need to know, from CPA passing score information to the score release timeline.CPA Exam Content and Structure The CPA Exam structure includes three Core exams: